Overview & Reviews

Inspired by the panel vans of the1930s, the Chrysler PT Cruiser caused quite a buzz when it was first released, for model year 2001. It was one of a few vehicles to herald the new retro trend and became an instant success.

As an entire decade passed, the PT's utility and versatility remained intact, but the hype surrounding it faded. Such was the life of the PT Cruiser: a bright spot for Chrysler that was ultimately left alone while other practical yet smartly styled hatchback/wagons were introduced. From a used car purchase standpoint, however, the PT is still a respectable choice, especially considering that you'll have plenty of examples to choose from given its decade in production.

Most Recent Chrysler PT Cruiser
The Chrysler PT Cruiser was produced from 2001-'10 as a four-door wagon, and from 2005-'08 as a two-door convertible. Despite sharing its platform with the much-maligned Neon, it drove better than its DNA would suggest. It was also versatile, with a maximum cargo space of 76 cubic feet, and there was ample seating space and headroom. The rear seats could fold down or be removed completely, and a two-tiered luggage area further enhanced the PT's usability.

Throughout its run, the standard engine was a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that produced 150 horsepower. A five-speed manual and four-speed automatic were available. Acceleration was adequate, but fuel economy was poor for a small wagon. For 2003, Chrysler added a turbocharged GT model; it originally produced 215 horses and later 230 for 2006. It was discontinued for '07. Those desiring more power after that time could opt for a 180-hp turbo engine on certain trims from 2004-'09.

Besides a minor interior styling refresh for '06 and the gradual addition of more features such as an auxiliary audio jack or Bluetooth, the PT Cruiser was otherwise unchanged.

In road tests, our editors found the Chrysler PT Cruiser to be an entertaining drive. It handled adequately, and its overall ride quality was smooth. The Cruiser's utility also bettered that of many compact crossovers. The main downsides included the tepid acceleration of the base engine and poor fuel economy. In its later years, the PT's design also became stale compared to newer competing hatchbacks and wagons. As for the convertible, its fixed roll bar made access to the backseat tricky and top-up visibility was a perpetual issue. We weren't enamored with it at the time, but it could be a good pick if you're looking for an affordable and stylish drop top.

User Reviews:

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  Great car fun fun to drive - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Dyna - November 19 - 5:56 pm

  I love my pt gt convert. it is the most fun car I have ever had.

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  great car - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By gary rodrigues - November 14 - 1:00 am

  this is a great little car and has multi purposes. it once fit a new 32" screen door inside, by folding one rear seat, and the front seat. My wife sat in the other part of the rear seat behind me while I drove home from Home Depot. plus its a lot of fun do drive

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  Cruisin - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By eclark - November 12 - 2:53 am

  Chrysler provided a way to watch the development of the PT Cruiser all the way through the design stage. I followed the process and always wanted to own one. Finally in 2005 I got my chance. I have not been disappointed in the least. The interior flexibility is amazing. The comfort is excellent. I get question after question about my PT Cruiser at gas stations and stop lights. Driving my PT Cruiser is an all around fun experience.

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  PT 2001 Im totally disappointed - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Ibeanhead - November 11 - 10:00 am

  Its a beauty,,,but Ive had nothing but problems since day 1.They do not want to acknowledge that yes this vehicle does in fact have problems. #1 window molding fell off first week. steering fuel leaks.had a brake job done then 1-2 months,car is not doing more then 10 mil but the RPM are at 4. They tell me they see no problem. but keep the car for 2-3 weeks. they replace the master cyclinder brakes.it wasnt a year old yet. signal lights stop working if I use my hazard light.The sun has also damaged the d

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  Fun car to drive - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Blake - November 10 - 2:43 pm

  I bought this car when I transferred to L.A. and couldnt be happier. It is fun to drive, great retro look and has excellent pickup. I looked at several convertibles and found the Cruiser to be the best value for the money. Has the weight and feel of the pricier convertibles - more car than the Miata. Bought the fully loaded model and got a better discount.

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  WOW - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Ric W - October 31 - 2:16 pm

  I have discovered that the need for "TURBO" is no need at all. The 5 speed has just as much pickup, and is much more affordable.

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  Fun and Comfort - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By JimmyJ765 - October 19 - 2:00 am

  Great car. Was driving a SUV. No comparison on the comfort of driving. Wanted the comfort of a car and the room of a SUV. Did not want a van again. The PT Crusier fit the bill. I could not be happier.

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  So far so good - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By BTKA - October 17 - 10:26 pm

  Just bought our cruiser and have gotten decent mileage. We are getting 23 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the hwy. We traded in a trailblazer that I loved, in return for better gas mileage. For the price, we really got a good deal. Just as much seat room, little less in storage, but none the less way better on gas. We were skeptical of the "hearse looking car" at first, but loved this inside so much we bought it. Talked to another gentleman with a cruiser that had 78,000 mi on it and never had one problem. Looking forward to many more miles and less gas. Great buy.

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  Cheated - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Ron - October 13 - 8:53 am

  Oil leaking unreliable crappie car and will never be a sucker to anything made by Chrysler. Bought new and now have a 5 year history of problems. 7 year 70,000 mile warranty. I have 72,000 miles on it now and the camshaft seal blows pouring out oil. At 3700 miles just 2 months old engine pulled for oil leaks. Chrysler wont help with warranty just 2000 miles over and history of this lemon even under the 7 years. The engine needs taken completely out and apart to find the problem. I feel cheated and wont waste any more money on it. Gonna go back to Ford. The most reliable vehicle I ever owned was a 1993 Ford tempo.

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  Car with pep - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By 1Daddeo - September 29 - 11:06 am

  We test drove a regular PT and found it to be sluggish. We just about gave up on the PT, when I found out that the GT version has 230 HP (I chirped tire in 2nd gear on the automatic) as opposed to the standard 150 HP. The car is not only stylish, but has tons of energy. The suspension and steering are tight and responsive. The new interior fits well the exterior. I only wished they did a few things extra like a glove box light, a light near the door handle and a little more chrome on a retro looking auto would help, but they make tons of aftermarket parts so you can customize to your taste.